North American Indians used catnip for its sedative effect on the nervous system as well as for treating colic in infants. Culpepper mentions catnip for hemorroids. Catnip has been documented as normalizing blood pressure. It is a mild tranquilizer that helps relieve stress, promotes restfulness, stimulates the appetite, soothes babies and children. It has also been used to induce sweating without bringing on a fever and promotes menstruation. Used to treat anxiety, colds, flu, bronchitis, fever, inflammation, and general aches and pains. A good remedy for diarrhea, even in children, and for inflammatory bowel conditions, infections, and constipation. Has been known to help headaches caused by tension,indigestion and stress-related conditions. A good antiseptic for sore throats and coughs, a decongestant for catarrh and sinusitis, and a relaxant for croup and asthma. It can be applied to hemorrhoids to soothe burning and itching or on eruptive skin infections such as measles and chickenpox. It helps to speed tissue repair, stop bleeding of abrasions and cuts, and aid in the healing of burns, scalds, piles, insect bites and other inflammatory skin conditions.